Several people have been arrested after violence erupted in Glasgow between anti-immigration and anti-racism protesters.
Police Scotland chased and held back Unite the Clans demonstrators who ran towards an anti-fascist group, with many on both sides wearing masks.
The force said a significant policing operation is in place, with disorder reported across the city centre.
A group of demonstrators march towards Glasgow city centre (Lesley Martin/PA)PA Wire“Members of the public are being asked to avoid the area at this time, and we understand the concern this is causing in the community. Anyone with concerns can approach officers,” police said in a statement.
“This is a particularly challenging situation, and officers are working hard to bring this incident to an end.”
Protesters and counter-protesters clashed in Glasgow Green on Saturday afternoon as police on horses attempted to separate them.
Punches were thrown as the anti-immigration group approached anti-racism campaigners, while projectiles were thrown into the anti-racism crowd.
Helicopters circled the park, one of the city’s busiest, as police managed to separate the groups near Saltmarket in the city centre.
Those taking part in the Unite the Clans rally chanted “Send them home” and held placards reading “Stop the boats”, as blue smoke billowed from the park.
The anti-immigration protest was organised by Unite the Clans Scotland (Lesley Martin/PA)PA WireThere were big cheers during a speech in which a protester said “it’s wonderful being white” and “I love being white”.
One man was heard saying: “I’m a Nazi and I love it.”
Anti-racism protesters, who outnumbered the anti-immigrant demonstrators, shouted “Nazi scum” at the group as well as chants of “There are more of us than you”.
Some anti-racism protesters shouted “scum” at police.
It is the latest in a series of protests around migration in Glasgow.
Tensions have flared in recent weeks, with police pinning much of the blame on misinformation online.